# Podcast Award Nominees > A scathing look at Congressional absenteeism, the logistical failures of the Iraq drawdown, and the media's calculated narrative surrounding the Fort Hood tragedy. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 147 - **Published:** 2009-11-11 - **Length:** 1h 40m - **Topics:** [Veterans Day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veterans-day.md), [Fort Hood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-hood.md), GAO Report, [Goldman Sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [Copenhagen Treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/copenhagen-treaty.md), Muni Assault, [Podcast Awards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-awards.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees ## About this episode The United States Congress faces sharp criticism for taking a week-long Veterans Day recess after a mere day and a half of work, leaving C-SPAN to fill the void with archival footage of Arlington National Cemetery financing. While the United Kingdom and Canada observe Poppy Day with symbolic tributes, the irony of American troops guarding the opium poppy harvest in Afghanistan remains a glaring contradiction in foreign policy. This disconnect highlights a broader trend of institutional inefficiency as the federal government navigates mounting domestic and international tensions. In the wake of the Fort Hood shooting, media coverage from Fox News and Shepard Smith is scrutinized for focusing on Nidal Hasan’s apartment contents—including paper shredders and foreign coins—while ignoring reports of HIV medication. Senator Joe Lieberman has called for a Congressional investigation into the incident, which many fear will be used to justify a renewal of the Patriot Act or a return of the federal assault weapon ban targeting the FN Five-seven handgun. Simultaneously, a GAO report reveals a logistical disaster in the Iraq drawdown, with a container tracking system that is only 25% accurate, leaving billions in equipment and thousands of shipping containers missing in transit to Afghanistan. Technical hurdles take center stage as the program celebrates its People's Choice nomination at the Podcast Awards, despite the ongoing struggle of burning AVI files to physical DVDs. From the tragic first flight of a fledgling pigeon named Oatmeal in Chicago to the biometric tracking boxes appearing on New York City subway security feeds, the world feels increasingly like a Philip K. Dick novel. The episode concludes with a deconstruction of the Copenhagen Treaty draft and the Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques used by Greenpeace to drive global climate policy. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/transcript.md. ### 1. Veterans Day, Congressional Recess and C-SPAN Programming (0:01–2:26) The hosts discuss the observation of Veterans Day and the closure of banks and postal services. They criticize the United States Congress for taking a week-long recess after working only a day and a half. C-SPAN programming during the break is noted for featuring committee meetings on Arlington National Cemetery financing. Keywords: [veterans day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veterans-day.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md), government holiday, [arlington cemetery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arlington-cemetery.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Poppy Day Traditions, Afghanistan Opium Harvest Irony (2:26–4:02) The tradition of wearing paper poppies for Veterans Day in the United Kingdom and Canada is contrasted with its absence in the United States. A connection is drawn between the symbolic poppy and the actual opium poppy harvest in Afghanistan, where U.S. troops are stationed. The hosts suggest the irony of guarding the plant while celebrating the holiday. Keywords: poppy day, [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [opium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/opium.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Executive Producer Credits, Russian Internet Censorship (4:03–6:12) William Arcand and Nelson Kunkel are credited as co-executive producers for financing the episode. A report from a listener in Russia indicates that certain web addresses, including dvorak.org, are being blocked by local internet service providers. This leads to a brief discussion on the deteriorating state of global internet freedom. Keywords: [william arcand](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/william-arcand.md), nelson kunkel, dracut, edwards, [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Search Engine Optimization, Career Advice for Interns (6:12–10:25) A listener email regarding swine flu and RFID chip skepticism prompts a discussion about career paths for young professionals. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is identified as a high-demand "black art" and a superior career choice compared to technical production roles. The hosts argue that understanding search engine mechanics provides long-term job security. Keywords: [seo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seo.md), [search engine optimization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/search-engine-optimization.md), [internships](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internships.md), [rfid chips](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rfid-chips.md), tech jobs [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Negative Language Processing, Hannity and Drug Policy (10:25–14:15) The psychological inability of the brain to process the word "not" is applied to the Ten Commandments, suggesting they inadvertently act as prompts for the forbidden behaviors. This transitions into a critique of Sean Hannity and conservative media for supporting strict drug laws. The hosts argue that advocating for government-led drug prohibition contradicts the conservative principle of personal responsibility. Keywords: [ten commandments](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ten-commandments.md), [sean hannity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-hannity.md), [marijuana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marijuana.md), [ama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ama.md), [personal responsibility](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/personal-responsibility.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Chicago Travel, United Airlines Extra Space, Saks Hotel (14:16–17:21) One host describes traveling to Chicago, noting the freezing weather and the experience of flying United Airlines with a paid upgrade for extra legroom. The stay at the Saks Hotel, a boutique establishment near the House of Blues, is detailed, including a late-night arrival to an empty bar with a live DJ. Keywords: [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md), [united airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-airlines.md), saks hotel, house of blues, [boutique hotels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boutique-hotels.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Media Formats, DVD Burning Challenges (17:21–18:42) A discussion on sharing video files reveals technical difficulties in burning AVI files to playable DVDs for home theater systems. The hosts debate the merits of standalone DVD writers versus computer-based burning, noting that dedicated hardware often supports a wider variety of native video formats. Keywords: avi, dvd burner, [mac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac.md), media formats, [home theater](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/home-theater.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Pigeon Nesting, Oatmeal and Granola Flight Day (18:43–21:51) A personal anecdote describes the fate of two fledgling pigeons, named Oatmeal and Granola, who nested on a window sill. During their first attempt at flight, Oatmeal died after falling two stories, while Granola successfully reached the ground. The hosts reflect on the harsh realities of urban nature and the instinct to rescue wildlife. Keywords: [pigeons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pigeons.md), nesting, [urban wildlife](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/urban-wildlife.md), [animal rescue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/animal-rescue.md), [nature](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nature.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/8.md) ### 9. San Francisco Transit, Muni Agent Battery Charges (21:51–24:18) A news report from San Francisco details an incident at the Embarcadero station where a Muni agent allegedly assaulted a 17-year-old passenger over a fare dispute. The hosts criticize the aggressive behavior of transit employees and warn listeners against using public transportation in San Francisco due to crime and poor maintenance. Keywords: [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [muni](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/muni.md), embarcadero station, [battery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/battery.md), [public transportation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/public-transportation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Podcast Awards Nominations, Humor as Coping Mechanism (24:20–27:20) The program celebrates its nomination for two Podcast Awards, including the People's Choice category. This leads to a discussion on using humor to deal with tragedy and illness. One host shares a personal story about his mother using dark humor while battling lung cancer as a way to manage the emotional weight of the situation. Keywords: [podcast awards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-awards.md), [people's choice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/people-s-choice.md), [humor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/humor.md), [cancer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cancer.md), coping [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Northwestern University Blackface Controversy, Media Misinformation (27:20–36:22) A WGN news report on a blackface incident at Northwestern University is criticized for historical inaccuracies regarding the origins of the practice. The reporter's claim that blackface originated with slave owners mocking slaves is debunked by the hosts, who point to the 19th-century minstrel theater tradition. They argue this is an example of "media assassination" and poor educational standards. Keywords: [northwestern university](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northwestern-university.md), [blackface](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackface.md), [wgn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wgn.md), [minstrel shows](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/minstrel-shows.md), [media assassination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-assassination.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Shepard Smith, Fort Hood Shooting Investigation (36:23–46:38) Fox News anchor Shepard Smith is criticized for his coverage of the Fort Hood shooting involving Nidal Hasan. The hosts analyze a report claiming that First Amendment protections prevented an earlier investigation into Hasan's emails. They argue the media is using the tragedy to manufacture consent for the renewal of the Patriot Act and increased troop levels in Afghanistan. Keywords: [shepard smith](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shepard-smith.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [fort hood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-hood.md), [nidal hasan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nidal-hasan.md), [patriot act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriot-act.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Nidal Hasan Apartment Search, HIV Medication Claims (46:38–51:08) The hosts mock a Fox News report detailing the contents of Nidal Hasan's apartment, which included "suspicious" items like a paper shredder, foreign coins, and upside-down stacks of paper. A significant detail regarding Hasan allegedly possessing HIV medication is highlighted, noting that Shepard Smith ignored the information during the live broadcast. Keywords: [nidal hasan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nidal-hasan.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), paper shredder, [hiv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hiv.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/13.md) ### 14. FN Five-seven Handgun, Assault Weapon Ban Rhetoric (51:09–55:35) The discussion turns to the weapon used in the Fort Hood shooting, identified as an FN Five-seven handgun. The hosts examine how the media and politicians might use the specific ammunition capabilities of this firearm to advocate for the return of the federal assault weapon ban. They also question the official narrative regarding Hasan's proficiency with the weapon. Keywords: fn five-seven, [handgun](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/handgun.md), armor piercing, assault weapon ban, [fort hood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-hood.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Domestic Terrorism Labeling, Joe Lieberman Investigation (55:35–59:02) The hosts discuss the emerging "homegrown terrorist" label being applied to Nidal Hasan and the potential for this terminology to be used against domestic groups. Senator Joe Lieberman's call for a Congressional investigation into the shooting is noted. They also speculate on the linguistic spin of the word "homegrown" in the context of future marijuana legalization. Keywords: [domestic terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/domestic-terrorism.md), homegrown terrorist, [joe lieberman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-lieberman.md), [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md), [marijuana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marijuana.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/15.md) ### 16. John Allen Muhammad Execution, Televised Capital Punishment (59:03–1:01:15) Following the execution of DC Sniper John Allen Muhammad, the hosts discuss the media's fascination with capital punishment. They suggest that if the death penalty is intended to be a deterrent, it should be televised as a reality show. They mock the idea of a "Death Row" program hosted by Ryan Seacrest where viewers vote on the outcome. Keywords: john allen muhammad, dc sniper, [death penalty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/death-penalty.md), [lethal injection](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lethal-injection.md), [reality tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reality-tv.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Listener Donations, Russian Botnets, New York Economic Crisis (1:01:16–1:08:01) The hosts acknowledge various listener donations, including a contribution from St. Petersburg, Russia. They discuss the economic downturn in New York City, reporting that some condo buildings are losing utility services due to insolvency. The segment includes mentions of specific donor names and their unique donation amounts, such as palindromes and cultural references. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [st. petersburg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/st-petersburg.md), [new york city](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-city.md), [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), toots and the maytals [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Squatting in New York, Getting Things Done System (1:08:01–1:12:12) A discussion on the potential for squatting in vacant New York City commercial buildings transitions into a recommendation for a productivity system. One host describes the success of a "Getting Things Done" style white paper for organizing tasks. They encourage listeners to continue supporting the show through various payment platforms. Keywords: [squatting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/squatting.md), [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), [productivity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/productivity.md), [white paper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-paper.md), david allen [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/18.md) ### 19. CNBC Global Currency Crisis, New World Order Comments (1:12:13–1:19:56) A CNBC interview with a capital fund manager is analyzed, where the guest predicts a global currency crisis leading to a "New World Order" and a unified global government. The hosts highlight the anchor's lack of reaction to these statements, focusing instead on the value of the U.S. dollar. They argue that gold's rise to $1,100 validates their long-term economic outlook. Keywords: [cnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnbc.md), [gold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gold.md), [global currency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-currency.md), [new world order](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-world-order.md), [hedge funds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hedge-funds.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Goldman Sachs High-Velocity Trading, Subway Biometrics (1:19:56–1:21:30) The hosts discuss online forums where programmers openly detail high-velocity trading algorithms used by Goldman Sachs for derivatives and arbitrage. Additionally, they examine security footage from the New York City subway that appears to show advanced biometric tracking and individual recognition boxes following passengers in real-time. Keywords: [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [algorithmic trading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/algorithmic-trading.md), [arbitrage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arbitrage.md), [biometrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biometrics.md), [facial recognition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facial-recognition.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/20.md) ### 21. GAO Report on Iraq Drawdown, Missing Shipping Containers (1:21:31–1:25:37) An analysis of a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report reveals massive logistical failures in the U.S. military drawdown from Iraq. The report indicates that the container tracking system is only 25% accurate, with thousands of shipping containers missing or incorrectly located in Afghanistan. The hosts highlight the lack of oversight regarding billions of dollars in equipment and contractor requirements. Keywords: [gao](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gao.md), [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [shipping containers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shipping-containers.md), [logistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/logistics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Retrograde Equipment Policy, Iraqi Hospital Transfer (1:25:37–1:28:57) The military policy of "retrograde"—rendering equipment useless rather than leaving it for local use—is criticized. A specific example is cited where the IBM Sina Hospital was transferred to the Iraqi government, but critical intensive care and trauma equipment was withheld because the U.S. Army refused to declare the items as "excess." Keywords: retrograde, ibm sina hospital, [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), military waste, equipment transfer [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Copenhagen Treaty Draft, Climate Change Policy Critique (1:28:59–1:34:42) The draft of the Copenhagen Treaty is examined, with the hosts criticizing the lack of scientific background among its primary organizers from Greenpeace. They argue the treaty is a financial mechanism designed to transfer wealth from the United States to developing nations under the guise of climate adaptation. The IPCC's findings on human-caused warming since 1750 are dismissed as a "scare" tactic. Keywords: [copenhagen treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/copenhagen-treaty.md), [ipcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipcc.md), [greenpeace](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenpeace.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [carbon tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-tax.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Media Deconstruction Techniques (1:34:42–1:38:24) The hosts explain the use of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) in media and how their audio-only format helps listeners focus on words without visual distractions. They discuss how deconstructing TV shows like "Law & Order" reveals poor acting that is usually masked by visual cues. Reference is made to Marshall McLuhan's theories on "hot" and "cool" mediums. Keywords: [nlp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nlp.md), [neuro-linguistic programming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neuro-linguistic-programming.md), [marshall mcluhan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marshall-mcluhan.md), [media theory](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-theory.md), [acting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/24.md) ### 25. V Television Series, Show Outro and Sign-off (1:38:26–1:40:15) The hosts briefly mention the television series "V" and plan to discuss it in the next episode. They conclude the show by thanking executive producers and donors, providing website URLs for the forum and stream, and signing off from Chicago and Northern Silicon Valley. The next episode is scheduled for the following Sunday. Keywords: v, [television](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/147-podcast-award-nominees/chapter/25.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/146-fort-hood-terrorist.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/148-adam-gets-kicked-out.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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